Use iPads, iPhones as Powerful Business Tools

Feb 8, 2013

Many of today's businesses are supporting a "bring your own device" policy, or outfitting their staff members with smartphones and tablets to help them stay productive even when away from the office. While Apple's iPhone, iPad and Mac computers were originally conceived to be devices mainly for consumers, recent InformationWeek Reports research revealed more companies are starting to adopt Apple devices and have them play a bigger role in the workplace.

"Our survey results point to a real opportunity for Apple to gain footing in the enterprise," said Lorna Garey, content director of InformationWeek Reports. "The next six to 18 months will be the real test: Will Apple take the necessary steps to further penetrate this market, or will it remain primarily a creator of consumer-class devices?"

Android has long been the operating platform business technology decision-makers have trusted, but now they are beginning to use Apple devices to carry out work processes. Eighty-five percent of respondents said they support iPhones, while 90 percent are either currently or planning to allow iPads in the office. However, security may present an issue with such devices, with 23 percent of decision-makers rating Apple's enterprise security and device management as excellent or good. Meanwhile, 31 percent responded that these functions' quality was poor or unacceptable.

The iPad can prove to be a solid business tool
Business executives, even those who are not directly involved in client experience, must realize that "the customer comes first" and remind their sales and marketing staff of the same thing. Meanwhile, they must be receptive and responsive to the needs of consumers and adjust accordingly. Apple's iPad can aid in the productivity of employees, but using them strategically around the business can prove to provide a better customer experience. Below is list created by Inc. magazine that lists a few ways companies have used iPads to cater to the needs of consumers.

Make the in-store experience more memorable: Many of today's consumers have a number of options when it comes to the products and/or services that they decide to purchase. This is why businesses need to make sure the customer experience they deliver is second to none. By making tablets available for consumers to learn more about a company's offerings, customers may be more apt to make purchases.

Create a commerce opportunity: Using iPads in stores has become a proven method to increase sales, so why not give customers an opportunity to purchase items straight from the tablet? When consumers are browsing the company's suite of products and/or services in the store, create an opportunity for them to buy right away.

Deliver on products that can't be found in-store: Brands often quickly run out of their most popular products in their most common sizes or styles, but that doesn't mean they can't turn a sale on items that can't be found in the store that day. Some companies have iPads in stores to allow customers to buy products online even in they aren't available at the store.

The iPad and iPhone are dynamic tools businesses are increasingly using to meet the needs of their clientele, and now that they are becoming more trusted, there are few limits to how firms will use them in the future. Investing in technology can help businesses plan strategically for the future.

Is your business ready to support iPads, iPhones and Macs? If so, how are you using these devices to create a competitive advantage against firms within your industry?